The representation and function of letters in Jane Austen(TM)s Pride and Prejudice.

Eighteenth- and nineteenth-century novels often contain written documents, such as bills, lists, or letters. Discuss the representation and function of letters in Jane Austen’s Pride and

Prejudice.

Letters in the eighteenth- and nineteenth century were just as important in real life as they were in novels. In Pride and Prejudice, they are used for several aims. They can reveal the characters’ personalities and thoughts, and allow them to express their feelings in an intimate way that is less intimidating than a face-to-face conversation. At the time the novel was written, letters were the most effective way of communication, and therefore very important. They are also very useful to provide the reader with a lot of information in a limited amount of time.

Letters are a great way of giving the reader an insight in the thoughts and feelings of the characters, and to provide background information. Apart from that, the letters in Pride and Prejudice tell a lot about the personality of the writers. The letter Mr. Collins writes to Mr. Bennet is very formal, and as Elizabeth states, he comes across as a very pompous man. Another example of a letter that reflects the writer’s personality, is the letter Jane writes to Elizabeth to acquaint her with the news that Lydia has gone off to Scotland with Mr. Wickham. She tries to ...

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Writing also allows the characters to express their true feelings and sincere thoughts. Because they do not get an immediate response and are not confronted with the readers’ first reaction, it is easier to relieve one’s feelings. Darcy’s letter to Elizabeth is a good example. After being accused of being arrogant en selfish, Darcy leaves Lizzy without defending his actions. The letter he writes to her the next morning to justify what he has done, shows his true feelings, and allows him to pour his heart out in a less direct manner.

When Pride and Prejudice was written, letters were the only way of communication, other than spoken language. Therefore, they were very important to keep in touch with friends and family. In the novel, letters are used to inform the reader of the latest developments in the story in the same way and at the time as the characters are informed. By the use of letters, a great amount of information can be shared in a short period of time. An example is the correspondence between Jane and Lizzy, and between Mr. Bennet and Mr. Gardiner, when Lydia elopes.

The use of letters in Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice has a lot of purposes, such as communicating characters’ thoughts, feelings and personalities to the reader. Letters were extremely important in real life to exchange information, and Jane Austen used this way of communication to the full extent.

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